During the eleventh week of the 2026 Legislative Session, the Mississippi Senate approved appropriation bills, confirmed appointments to state boards, passed a Rules calendar honoring outstanding Mississippians, and advanced local and private legislation.
Key legislation passed by the Senate includes:
• House Bill 1380 — Allows the homestead exemption to continue for a surviving spouse following the death of a qualifying homeowner, regardless of age or disability status, provided the home remains the primary residence.
• Senate Bill 2931 — Authorizes the City of Natchez to contribute up to $225,000 annually to Natchez Inc., a nonprofit economic development organization.
• Senate Bill 3390 — Allows the City of Philadelphia to make a one-time contribution of up to $10,000 in 2026 to Philadelphia Transit, a nonprofit providing transportation services to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families in east central Mississippi.
• Senate Bill 3406 — Authorizes the Jackson County Board of Supervisors to contribute up to $5,000 annually through 2030 to the Friends of Arts, Culture and Education (F.A.C.E.), supporting local arts initiatives.
Additional measures were passed and are currently pending conference negotiations. The Senate also continued its tradition of recognizing outstanding Mississippians, honoring community leaders, student athletes, and organizations across the state.
On March 19, 2026, Senator McCaughn presented Senate Bill 2258, establishing the Mississippi-Ireland Trade Commission, to Senator Mark Daly, Chair of the Senate of Ireland, strengthening international economic and cultural ties.
The Senate met key deadlines this week, including March 17 for original floor action on House appropriation and revenue bills, March 18 for reconsideration and passage, March 19 for disposition of reconsideration motions, and March 20 for concurrence on House amendments. Upcoming deadlines include March 23, March 26, March 27, and March 28 for continued legislative action.
“As your State Senator for District 31, I remain committed to advancing policies that strengthen our communities, support economic development, and recognize the people and institutions that make Mississippi strong,” said Senator McCaughn.
